Windows/Mac/Linux (OpenOffice): Free OpenOffice extension Groovy makes it possible to record and run Macros in OpenOffice. Don't confuse Groovy for a cheap Visual Basic knockoff. Groovy has its own syntax similar to bash mixed with Java. If you were sticking to Microsoft Office solely for its macro capabilities, you may be able to break away with Groovy. Unfortunately, Groovy is not nearly as beginner friendly as VB/VBA. However, beginners will have no problem getting started with simple macros. Groovy is a free extension for all platforms with OpenOffice. Here is an ODT with several sample macros to help you get your feet wet (remember, you need to install Groovy before you can run the macros).